THE FELINE HEALTH CENTER • CORNELL COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE

January 2020 - Vol. 24, No. 1

Expert information on medicine, behavior, and health in collaboration with a world leader in veterinary medicine  THIS JUST IN Become an Illness Detective Link to Liver Cancer Older require you to be on the alert Virus is similar to lthough it may surprise you, cats are considered geriatric once they hepatitis B in people reach ten years of age, and many cats begin to show signs of age-related Adiseases around this time. Diseases such as chronic renal (kidney) report from the University of disease, hyperthyroidism, diabetes mellitus, osteoarthritis, dental disease, and Sydney, published in Viruses, cancer are more prevalent in the older feline population. Asays that a virus in cats that was Early identification of these diseases results in more favorable outcomes, which is discovered last year is now believed to be why it’s so important to understand the health concerns that are commonly associated a significant factor in the development of with aging in cats. liver cancer in cats. The researchers found Older cats are physically different from younger cats. Their immune system is less the hepatitis B-like virus, called domestic able to fend off invaders, their skin is thinner and less elastic, and the function of a hepadnavirus (DCH), in certain types number of organ systems undergoes changes that make them prone to a variety of age- of hepatitis and liver cancer in cats. associated diseases. Domestic cat hepadnavirus infection Their claws may become overgrown and brittle, and changes to their skin and hair, appears to be common in companion combined with arthritis that can limit range of motion, can predispose them to hair cats, with the virus detected in 6.5 matting and skin infections. percent and 10.8 percent of cats in Arthritis can also make it more difficult for them to enter the litter box, climb Australia and Italy respectively. stairs, and gain access to higher perches. Since DCH is like hepatitis B, which You may notice increased urine production due to disease (e.g., kidney is a major global concern that can lead failure, diabetes mellitus, or hyperthyroidism). The increased soil and odor may to liver cancer and chronic hepatitis in prompt cats to eliminate in inappropriate areas. Many cats that do not mark their people, the researchers wanted to know territory with urine may begin to do so if a condition like hyperthyroidism develops. if this new virus does the same thing Your cat may show signs of hearing loss, and her eyes may become hazy. Several in cats, and they have found evidence diseases, especially high blood pressure, can irreversibly impair a cat’s ability to see. that it does. The hope is that this study While there are many diseases that can decrease an elderly cat’s appetite, dental could lead disease is a very common cause of this problem. Loss of sense of smell that can occur toward targeted with advancing age may also decrease appetite, causing you to find smelly foods to treatments and get his attention. You can also increase the aroma by warming the food up in the vaccines.n microwave (but not too hot!). https://sydney.edu. Never assume that a change in your older cat is due to “aging.” Contact your au/news-opinion/ veterinarian if your cat is acting unusual or shows any of these symptoms: news/2019/10/24/ XX Greenish or yellowish discharge from the eyes and/or the nose cat-virus-may-be- XX Diarrhea that lasts more than two days linked-to-feline- XX Increased thirst and/or urination cancer.html XX Vomiting that lasts for more than one day

asmakar | iStock Photos | iStock asmakar XX Inability to urinate or painful urination XX INSIDE THIS ISSUE Increased respiratory rate/effort Coconut Meal for ...... 2 XX Blood in urine or stool XX Changes in activity level Potential New Test for Urinary Tract XX Hiding in unusual places Infections...... 2 XX Appetite changes Life Without Teeth...... 3 XX Unkempt appearance XX Unsteady gait TNR and Unowned Cats...... 4 XX Weakness/collapse A Change of Voice...... 6 XX Weight loss Finally, maintaining a The Ins and Outs of Catios...... 7 schedule of twice-annual

Endoscopy: What to Expect...... 8 well visits with your Photo | iStock mico_images Happening Now...... 8 veterinarian is important for You and your old friend may be surprised by the new need assuring optimal health. n to clip nails.  SHORT TAKES Coconut Meal for Pets

The pet industry’s interest in novel EDITOR IN CHIEF Bruce G. Kornreich, DVM, ingredients continues to grow Ph.D., Dipl ACVIM

ome cats love coconut, while others will think you’re a EXECUTIVE EDITOR “coconut” for offering it to them. But it’s showing up as Cynthia Foley an alternative to other starches (grains, tubers, legumes)

S Photo | iStock Nur Ataturk TECHNICAL EDITOR in some pet foods, according to an article by Greg Aldrich, Ph.D., in Pet Industry News. The coconut trend may be spurred by coconut’s growing Debra M. Eldredge, DVM following in human foods. ADVISORY BOARD Coconut meal comes from the white coconut “meat” inside the husk after the James A. Flanders, DVM, Dipl ACVS, liquid (milk) is removed. It is usually dried and has a shelf life of around six months Associate Professor, Clinical Sciences in cool, dry storage. Currently, there are no standards for coconut meal as a dietary component for pets, which means things like protein and fat content can vary from Margaret C. McEntee, DVM, batch to batch. Dipl ACVIM, DACVR, Professor of Oncology So far, dietary studies addressing coconut products have been limited to pigs, which have different gastrointestinal tracts from and cats. This lack of studies William H. Miller, Jr., VMD, Dipl ACVD, makes it difficult to characterize the potential risks and benefits of dietary coconut to Professor, Clinical Sciences cats, although there is no current evidence that it is toxic to felines. n http://www.petfoodindustry-digital.com/201910/index.php#/40 Pamela J. Perry, DVM, Ph.D. Lecturer, Clinical Sciences, ACVB Behavior Resident CatWatch is an independent Potential New Test for Urinary Tract Infections newsletter produced in collaboration with the Cornell College of Veterinary Product offers results in five minutes for faster treatment Medicine Feline Health Center

esting for and treating urinary tract infections can be a challenge for veterinarians. First, an infection must be identified and then the ideal therapy Thas to be determined. For information on your cat’s health, visit Usually, a urine sample is sent to an outside laboratory for a “culture and the Cornell University College of Veterinary sensitivity,” which is a test to see if bacteria are present, and if so, which antibiotics Medicine, Cornell Feline Health Center would be best to treat the infection with. Urine culture results are usually available website at www.vet.cornell.edu/fhc/. in one to three days. Many urinary tract bacteria already show resistance to various Send Ask Elizabeth questions antibiotics, making it difficult to determine the best treatment, although most and letters to the editor: CatWatch® veterinarians will make an early decision to get your cat started on a medication 535 Connecticut Ave. while awaiting the results of this test. Norwalk, CT 06854-1713 A company in England is working with veterinarians and specialists at the [email protected] University of Tennessee on a product called “U Treat,” reports vetsurgeon.org. Using a urine sample, this test can identify a urinary tract infection in five minutes. Subscriptions: $39 per year (U.S.) • $49 per year (Canada). For subscription and Subsequent testing can then identify which antibiotics can be best to treat the customer service information, visit infection. www.catwatchnewsletter.com/cs Bioluminescence techniques are used to remove host cell adenosine triphosphate or write to: CatWatch, P.O. Box 8535, (ATP), an energy-carrying molecule, and then to lyse (break open) bacterial cell walls Big Sandy, TX 75755-8535. 800-829-8893 to release bacterial ATP. The luminometer can then guide your veterinarian to the ideal antibiotic. CatWatch® (ISSN: 1095-9092) is published monthly for $39 per The susceptibility test (to determine the best antibiotic choice) takes about 45 year by Belvoir Media Group, LLC, minutes, so diagnosis and treatment can be carried out in about an hour. This is 535 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, much faster than having to send a urine specimen out for culture and sensitivity CT 06854-1713. Robert Englander, Chairman and CEO; Timothy H. Cole, testing at a remote laboratory. Executive Vice President, Editorial Clinical testing of this system was performed on dogs and cats at the University Director; Philip L. Penny, Chief Operating Officer; of Tennessee and overseen by Dr. David Bemis, who earned his PhD at Cornell Greg King, Executive Vice President, Marketing Director; Ron Goldberg, Chief Financial Officer; University. The U Treat system was both highly specific and highly sensitive, meaning Tom Canfield, Vice President, Circulation. that there were few false positives and negative results. ©2020 Belvoir Media Group, LLC. Rapidly identifying an effective antibiotic Postmaster: Send address corrections to therapy reduces the likelihood of inducing CatWatch, P.O. Box 8535, Big Sandy, TX 75755-8535. bacterial resistance to antibiotics and provides Express written permission is required to faster relief to your pet. n reproduce, in any manner, the contents of this https://www.vetsurgeon.org/news/b/veterinary-news/ issue, either in full or in part. For more information: Permissions, CatWatch, 535 Connecticut Ave., archive/2019/09/30/new-test-for-uti-in-cats-and-dogs.aspx Norwalk, Connecticut 06854-1713. Yakovliev | iStock Yakovliev

2 CatWatch January 2020  DENTISTRY

The Extraction Life Without Teeth Eventually, many cats need their teeth removed. Full dental extractions clear Your cat will take the change right in stride about 60% of feline stomatitis cases. Follow-up laser therapy can encourage hen a person loses all their teeth, healing. Once these cats have healed, they major lifestyle changes, such as can easily eat soft food and many even eat Wdentures and diet adjustments, their favorite kibble. are usually necessary. Luckily, cats adapt “Full mouth extraction is well more easily. They can commonly still tolerated by cats, but their recovery and hiss and eat normally once depends on the nature of the disease they heal from the extraction surgery. that necessitated the procedure to be Cats who need full dental extraction performed. For example, cats suffering or lose many teeth usually suffer from from advanced periodontitis or extensive one of two dental problems: feline tooth resorption are likely to recover odontoclastic resorptive lesions (FORL) more quickly than cats who receive or gingivitis/stomatitis. complete dental extraction to manage chronic gingivostomatitis,” says Eric M. Tooth Resorption Davis, DVM, Dipl. AVDC (Cornell 1979),

Tooth resorption is common in cats, krblokhin Photo | iStock a board-certified veterinary dentist. especially cats over 5 years old. Estimates Fortunately, cats adapt quite well to the loss During healing, it is important to are that 20 to 60 percent of all cats will of teeth, whether it’s one fang or the whole provide soft, easy-to-eat foods. Keeping suffer from some tooth resorption. It mouth. both food and water at room temperature might be one or two teeth, or it might also encourages cats to eat and drink be a mouthful. Owners may notice Why cats get LPGS is not clear. They initially. The gums and palate harden their cat chewing strangely, with her may be hypersensitive to the bacteria and toughen up after healing. Many cats, head tilted, trying to chew on just one and plaque that accumulate with dental however, want to transition back to their side of her mouth, or avoiding dry disease. Immune-mediated diseases earlier diet, even if that is dry kibble. food to preferentially eat canned food. are also a possible cause. Calicivirus “Cats do need some time to learn how Alternatively, you might realize your and herpesvirus infections have been to manipulate their tongue and cheeks cat is swallowing her kibble without implicated, with up to 88% of cats with to direct food toward the back of their attempting to chew it. stomatitis shedding these viruses. mouth to be swallowed. The presence Diagnosing FORL requires an oral For some breeds, a genetic of teeth forms a channel to keep food in exam with special dental radiographs. predisposition may be to blame. Siamese, the center aspect of the mouth. Without The cat will need sedation and/or Himalayans, Somalis, and Persians are teeth, food can end up in the sides of the anesthesia. Initially, root resorption somewhat predisposed, and signs may mouth, and that requires the cat to figure will not be especially painful but, as show up in them as early as 6 months to a out how to direct the food backward. the surrounding gums and possibly the year of age. “We usually recommend that cats nerves in the center of the tooth pulp Cats with stomatitis may drool, paw continue to be fed their usual diet become involved, these teeth will become at their mouths, and may approach their postoperatively, but with water added painful. Your veterinarian usually will food bowl but then back away without to soften the food. A dietary change suggest removing teeth showing signs of eating. You might notice your cat hiding postoperatively can result in digestive FORL. Depending on the tooth, removal (a nonspecific reaction to pain) or having upset. Cats do not chew dry food. The may leave an open area of gum to heal, or bad breath. The tissues of the mouth can particles are almost always swallowed the gum may be sutured. become inflamed, ulcerated, and painful. whole. Therefore, cats that prefer dry Diagnosis will require sedation or food can continue to be fed kibble even Gingivitis/Stomatitis general anesthesia to facilitate a full oral without teeth,” says Dr. Davis. Gingivitis/stomatitis means inflammation examination and dental radiographs. This While no one wants their kitty to of the gum (gingivitis) or the whole diagnostic phase often continues directly lose her teeth, cats usually recover from mouth (stomatitis). Lymphocytic into treatment, with a dental cleaning and dental extractions well and return to their plasmacytic gingivitis/stomatitis (LPGS) removal of affected teeth. normal lives, eating their regular food is the most severe form of this condition. A thorough cleaning and a dose once healing is complete. n of antibiotics combined with anti- inflammatory medication may help Odontoclasts Gone Wild initially. Bovine lactoferrin, which is Myth Busting An odontoclast is a cell whose a bactericidal immune-modulating The belief that excess vitamin D function is to resorb bone. In a healthy substance, can help, since it seems causes tooth loss was fueled by one cat, these cells help with removal of to inhibit plaque and bacteria from study that showed about one third of deciduous teeth. In cats with FORL, adhering to the oral surfaces. Dedicated all cat foods had excessive amounts however, the cells attack the roots of home care may stave off relapses but is of vitamin D. However, further permanent teeth as well. most successful if cases are caught early studies have discounted this theory. and the cat is cooperative about brushing.

www.catwatchnewsletter.com January 2020 3  RESCUE

“When wildlife is impacted by feral TNR and Unowned Cats or stray cat populations, the department of natural resources may get involved. The goal, pitfalls, and drama of trap-neuter-release When stray or feral cats are ill, county or municipal animal control may be tray cats are an issue that asked to collect the animal. In most has challenged communities jurisdictions, non-governmental Sfor a long time and does not organizations, such as humane have a simple solution. Although societies, SPCAs, non-profit clinics or controversial, trap-neuter-return special interest groups help respond to (TNR) programs are one of the concerns about feral cats. Motivations most common current methods can vary from concern about impacts used to help address the issue on wildlife and birds, public health, of unowned cat populations, Word will get around or feline welfare (or all of the above),” particularly feral cats who are not quickly if you consistently says Dr. DeTar. suitable for being placed in homes. feed stray/feral cats. Realistic Goals Also sometimes referred to as Santorines Photo | iStock shelter-neuter-release (SNR) or “The enormity of the return-to-field (RTF), the basic theory of of unowned cats, the greater the risk of problem is such that neither TNR nor TNR is simple: Trap as many stray cats disease and other problems. Feral and Trap/Euthanize programs can possibly as possible, spay and neuter them, offer stray cats are also exposed to the hazards ‘solve’ the problem on a national scale; other medical care when possible, and of weather, larger predators, and cars. estimates range from 30-80 million feral then return them to where they came cats currently living in the U.S., which from. The goal is to reduce the number of Solving the Problem far exceeds our surgical or euthanasia intact cats and thereby limit reproduction Accountability is part of the challenge— capacity,” says Dr. DeTar. and population growth. who is responsible for dealing with Research has shown that in order to stray cats? “In most places, there is no get a significant reduction in population, Why Stray Cats Are an Issue governmental entity responsible for at least 75% of the cat population must Free-roaming cats can be a nuisance to taking the lead on cat populations,” says be sterilized or at least 50% of the people by making noise and damaging Lena DeTar, DVM, DACVPM, DABVP- population must be euthanized. With 30 property and are a significant threat SMP, Assistant Clinical Professor in to 80 million unowned cats out there, to wildlife, such as birds and small Maddie’s Shelter Medicine Program at you are looking at sterilizing 22.5 to mammals. These cats can also spread Cornell University College of Veterinary 60 million cats or euthanizing 15 to diseases and parasites to both owned cats Medicine. Instead, different groups or 40 million cats. These are staggering and to humans. The larger the population individuals get involved in different areas. numbers, with staggering costs to implement. “Trapping cats is intensive, difficult work,” says Dr. DeTar, “and if To Feed or Not to Feed? new cats are attracted or added to the un-fixed outdoor cat population, trapping Feeding feral and stray cats is a controversial topic efforts must continue on an intensive and “More studies are needed to assess the true impacts of feeding stray and feral cats regular basis.” and its impact on both cat populations and wildlife,” says Dr. DeTar, but there are But there is hope. “Within our some guidelines to use. If you are feeding one or more stray cats, some good habits communities, however, specific, pro- to minimize problems include only setting the food out for a limited time (i.e., half active targeting of colonies/areas an hour a day) and cleaning bowls between feedings. Keep track of how much food producing the largest numbers of is eaten to avoid putting out too much food, which would attract more cats and for TNR is quite impactful on local other animals to the feeding station. If feeding cats in preparation for trapping, feed population reduction and shelter intake,” at the same time of day to get the cats in a routine, and place the food in unset traps Dr. DeTar says. for a couple days to allow them to acclimate to the traps (thereby maximizing the A study published in the February number of cats that you will be able to trap). Be aware, too, that there may be local 2016 Journal of the American Veterinary ordinances that would prohibit you from feeding feral cats. Medical Association looked at the intake and euthanasia rates for cats at an animal Pros Cons shelter in Northern California over the four years before and after the shelter Provides a balanced diet Does not reduce hunting behaviors initiated a SNR program modified to fit Makes it easier to keep tabs on the cats or the Attracts more cats and wildlife their needs. population as a whole After starting the program, the number of cats admitted to the shelter Makes trapping easier May allow spread of disease each year decreased and their euthanasia Can be used to relocate cats away from areas Promotes reproduction due to rate decreased (the latter being because with sensitive wildlife abundant food feral cats that previously would have been euthanized for being unadoptable were

4 CatWatch January 2020  RESCUE instead returned to their territories). fostering the kittens of feral moms so With fewer cats in the shelter, those cats they become friendly and adoptable. Cats and Wildlife were able to be adopted more quickly. Finally, responsible pet ownership, Cats like to hunt, and will do so This is, of course, just one study in spaying/ their own cats, and whether or not they are well fed by one location, and it covers a relatively adopting spayed/neutered cats from loving owners. To protect wildlife, short period of time. But it shows that shelters can actually go a long way to keep your pet cat indoors unless on a a positive impact can be made when a decrease outdoor cat populations. leash and harness. You can also build community makes a plan that works for For those looking to get even more an enclosed catio for your cat to their area and is able to dedicate adequate deeply involved, organizations like Alley enjoy fresh air and sunshine without resources to enact it. Cat Allies have a lot of resources and terrorizing local birds. experience starting feral cat management Multimodal Approach projects.” For more information on Alley While you’re at it, support wildlife in “TNR is not functional on its own to Cat Allies, check out their website at other areas of your life too. Donate regulate feral cat and stray cat numbers www.alleycat.org. to groups that manage or lobby for in terms of feline population across natural areas, and respect the rules large areas, but may work well for Looking Forward when visiting parks and sanctuaries. preventing population expansion in small Trap-neuter-release is not a perfect communities,” says Dr. DeTar. “When solution to the feral cat problem, but combined with other efforts, such as with sufficient funding and when belong in a shelter, nor do we support rehoming friendly cats through adoption, combined with other methods of colony killing them on sight,” says Dr. DeTar. removal of ill cats through euthanasia, management it can help to reduce “Future research into non-surgical and relocation of feeding stations away population numbers and minimize the sterilization methods for cats and more from sensitive areas/wildlife, TNR impact on wildlife. research/proactive action on minimizing becomes a much more successful and “TNR is a good interim solution for impacts of cats (and humans) on wildlife sustainable method for responsible feral balancing feline and wildlife welfare, are on-going. We look forward to exciting cat population management.” since we know that these cats DO NOT innovations in the years to come.” n Education also must play a role in controlling unowned cat populations. Many people get cats on impulse or by You Trapped a Feral Cat! Now What? accident (we’ve all heard stories of cats The challenge of catching the cat is a small part of the battle who chose their owners rather than the other way around) without people If you have some unowned cats in your area, be they new cats hanging out in your thinking through the responsibilities that garage or an established colony in the neighboring business park, start by making come with cat ownership. a plan. Talk to other people who are interested or invested in the cats to make sure Cat owners and prospective owners everyone is on the same page, and know where you are going to take the cats once should be educated about spaying and you successfully trap them. Do you have enough traps for all of the cats? Are you neutering cats not intended for breeding, taking the cats to the veterinarian you use for your pets, or are you utilizing a low- keeping cats indoors or on a leash to cost spay/neuter clinic? What is their schedule, and can they accommodate the prevent harm to wildlife (and prevent number of cats you are bringing along? Will you also be vaccinating the cats or roaming and unwanted litters in intact seeking other care measures such as ear cleaning, disease testing, or treatment for cats), and the basics of good cat care and minor injuries? Who is paying the bill? management. Microchipping cats is highly “Communication regarding surgery is essential, and not every organization encouraged, so that if a cat does get loose performs procedures every day,” warns Dr. DeTar. “Before trapping, citizens should and is picked up by someone it can be be in contact with the shelter or veterinarian providing these services regarding scanned and reunited with the owner protocol and timing. Spay/neuter surgery for trapped cats is a generally safe and rather than taking up space in a shelter. straightforward process, but veterinarians or their staff should discuss surgical We also need to encourage a cultural shift risks and contingency plans with trappers, including when euthanasia will be away from the current all-too-common recommended (FIV/FeLV status, ill health, if a bite occurs, etc.).” The surgeon will use mentality that cats are disposable pets absorbable suture so that the cat will not need to come back for a suture removal that can just be dumped on the side of the appointment. road when no longer wanted. Also be sure to ask the veterinarian to remove the tip of an ear on each cat to How You Can Help indicate that they have been spayed or neutered. While not the most elegant “Getting involved with local or national solution, ear tipping has minimal complications and saves cats from undergoing an organizations providing services [for unnecessary second surgery if they are later trapped by a different person. If you unowned cats], giving money, or happen to trap a cat with a tipped ear, you can release him or her right away. volunteering in the field are all ways that the public can get involved,” says “Finally, a plan should be discussed for when the cats will be fed and/or released Dr. DeTar. “Other ways to help include from their traps,” says Dr. DeTar. “Usually keeping the cats in their traps indoors lobbying for reasonable ordinances overnight in a quiet place is recommended, with release the day after surgery. Since regarding outdoor cat welfare, and cats acclimate well to outside weather, TNR can be performed any time of year.” www.catwatchnewsletter.com January 2020 5 ILLNESS

(depending upon how advanced the A Change of Voice disease is), but it is not generally curative, and the long term prognosis may not be If your cat’s meow changes, take a closer look favorable. Laryngeal paralysis. Although rare, subtle change in the sound of your laryngeal paralysis is most frequently cat’s meow may indicate she has found in older cats. It may be due to a Aa problem with her larynx (voice neuromuscular abnormality or to trauma. box), which is composed of right and Cats with laryngeal paralysis often left paired cartilages that connect the show an increase in panting and a oral cavity to the trachea. The air your reduced tolerance for hot weather. cat breathes in goes through the larynx Abnormal respiratory sounds and other to the lungs, and cats with problems in symptoms of distress may be evident, and the larynx may have varying degrees of they may vomit and/or regurgitate. These difficulty breathing. nonspecific symptoms indicate that a If you watch a cat with possible veterinary exam is warranted. laryngeal problems closely, you may Cats with unilateral laryngeal notice difficulty breathing, a wheeze Photo | iStock onetouchspark paralysis typically have less significant or stridor, or gagging when eating In one study, Burmese cats had the highest clinical signs and can often be managed incidence of laryngitis—inflammation of the or drinking. Weight loss may be larynx—among cat breeds. Another study medically. However, most cases in cats apparent. Although these symptoms are conducted in Europe identified Burmese are bilateral. Cats with bilateral laryngeal nonspecific, they are cause for a prompt littermates that suffered from acute laryngeal paralysis often benefit from surgery. consultation with a veterinarian. swelling. A congenital defect of laryngeal The surgery recommended for Laryngeal problems can run from hypoplasia was proposed as the cause. most cases is the unilateral arytenoid mild to severe, and can be caused by a lateralization or “tieback.” This surgery number of conditions. Common causes tests may be run to rule out infection uses a suture to permanently keep one include inhaled irritants like dust or and thyroid problems. Depending side of the larynx open. Doing only one secondhand smoke or a respiratory upon severity and physical examination side minimizes the chances of aspiration infection such as herpes virus or findings, careful examination of the pneumonia (the larynx normally closes calicivirus. Affected cats may also larynx (usually requiring sedation and/or fully to prevent food from getting down have congenital deformities that cause anesthesia) may be recommended. in to the lungs, where it may predispose laryngeal problems, and immune and Typical diagnoses include: to bacterial infection/pneumonia) while endocrine (hormonal) disorders may also Laryngitis. Cats with laryngitis providing your cat with plenty of airflow. affect the larynx. There is some suspicion, often start with a harsh, dry cough that for example, that hypothyroidism may be may progress to a soft, moist cough. Bottom Line a cause, but this is debatable. Myopathy Laryngitis can be painful, particularly If your cat develops symptoms of a larynx (muscle disease) or nervous system when swallowing and/or breathing. You problem, a veterinary consultation is problems can also trigger laryngeal may notice your cat breathing with her important. While the potential causes of problems. head down and mouth open. The sound these symptoms are not common, they of her meow may be different. Treatment can be serious. n Diagnosis often includes anti-inflammatory Your veterinarian will perform a medications, pain medications, thorough physical exam and may antibiotics if indicated, and recommend diagnostic tests. Chest softened foods. Providing food radiographs are often the first step, and water at room temperature or looking for signs of pulmonary or cardiac slightly warmer may help your cat illness that may affect breathing. A full eat and drink normally. Laryngitis neurologic exam may be done to rule may be due to infectious out neuromuscular weakness, and blood rhinotracheitis or calicivirus infection, and most cats make a full recovery in cases that are not Purring Kitty severe. Cancer. Lymphoma is Purring is a unique feline sound the most common laryngeal produced by an interaction between neoplasia. Radiographs of the two sets of muscles, the laryngeal neck and oral area may be muscles and the diaphragm. As your obtained to detect laryngeal cat breathes in, air hitting the vibrating masses. If found, these are usually laryngeal muscles produces a purring biopsied to check for cancer. sound. Domestic cats, bobcats, Chemotherapy can provide

cheetahs, Eurasian lynx, and mountain prolonged periods of high quality Santorines Photo | iStock lions can all . life for cats with lymphoma All the air your cat breathes passes through the larynx.

6 CatWatch January 2020  CONSUMER

need to avoid anything that a collar may The Ins and Outs of Catios get caught on, if your cat wears one. This can be extremely dangerous. Better Designing a catio will spark creativity yet, consider removing the collar unless you’re right there with him. Many catios ll cat lovers understand the perils of are built with a bench or room for a chair letting a cat run outside: traffic, wild for humans. Aanimals, other domestic animals, Consider spots for a scratching post, unscrupulous people, and disease. But even a real piece of wood like a large we also watch our cat look longingly out branch or piece of firewood. You will the window, clearly wishing for a taste need to include a litterbox, perhaps of freedom. We may think he’s bored or placed in the most private corner of the that we need to increase his exercise. The catio. Cat-safe plants like fresh solution may be found in a catio. will be enjoyed as well. A water bowl is a A catio is a term derived from necessity as well, but food isn’t. the phrase “patio for cats.” It’s a fully Be aware that your all-indoor cat who

enclosed area—all sides, a roof, and Photo Natalie_magic | iStock never showed interest in what lies beyond floor or secured base—that a cat cannot A good catio has strong wire and cat perches. the door may change his mind when he possibly escape from and that no animal gets a taste of outdoor living in a catio. can invade. The catio must be sturdy grass. If you choose grass, be sure you’ll Keep in mind that he may begin to play and secure. From there, you can let your be able to easily get in and out to cut the the “door dash” game, trying to escape imagination run wild. grass when it gets too long. The other when you open the door to pick up the “A catio addresses some of the major options are low maintenance, but they paper or greet a guest. health risks to cats during the warm will need occasional upkeep. If you’re not a do-it-yourselfer, you summer months,” advises Elizabeth, can purchase a catio online (costs range Cornell’s Feline Health Center resident Building Considerations from around $300 on up) or purchase a cat and our back-page columnist. “Cats Depending upon your preferences, simple kennel kit and make small are let out in an unsupervised fashion your catio may include a solid roof, changes to make it safe for a cat, adding more during the warmer months which will usually take care of the shade some climbing and perching options. (a practice that we do not endorse), consideration and allow your cat to be If you’re looking for ideas, we found an exposing them to the risks of being hit outside when it rains. Since this is a semi- amazing array of photos of catio designs by a car or getting into fights with other permanent structure, you need to be sure at www.pinterest.com/arlinegrant/catio. cats or animals. Such encounters increase the roof can handle snow loads in your Let your imagination run wild! n the risk of health problems ranging from area. Your coding office can help you with infectious diseases to life-threatening or roof pitch, so more snow slides off rather even fatal injuries,” she says. “A catio can than building up. If you choose a metal What You Should Know help prevent these problems.” roof, be sure you place insulation under it to stop dripping from condensation. Concerns arise with outdoor activity Location While a wire mesh roof eliminates XX Contact with other cats through the Choose your spot carefully. You will need problems with condensation, it can still wire is possible. Be sure your cat is to be able to safely bring your cat out and allow snow to build up, especially if it’s a properly vaccinated by discussing in without him trying to escape. Some flat roof. your plan with your veterinarian. catios are built with a direct door or Since you want your cat to experience window entrance, so the cat is never out as much of the outside as possible, your XX Infestation with fleas, ticks, mites, of an enclosure. If you rent your home, best choice for walls is a wire mesh. a variety of intestinal worms, and you will need to discuss the location and Avoid chicken wire as it isn’t strong and other nasty little critters such as the structure with your landlord. It’s a can have rough edges. A 2- x 3-inch wire heartworms becomes more likely. good idea, even if you own your home, mesh (sometimes called no-climb) is to check with your town’s coding office better. We recommend 16-gauge wire XX Watch the weather. Even with to ensure there are no laws that might or stronger. (The lower the gauge the shade, high temperatures increase restrict your design. stronger the wire.) the risk for dehydration and heat Look for a spot that will give the cat exhaustion/stroke (lethargy, both shade and sun. If you’re building Amenities vomiting, staggering, rapid/heavy a window catio, will your cat be able Cats like to perch, so include plenty of breathing, red tongue/mouth). to go in and out as he pleases to escape spots to climb and look around. Large Sunburn can occur, especially with the strong sun? If not, you will have to rocks, ramps, tunnels, and cat trees are all white cats. restrict the times he is in it. Never leave good choices. One structure we saw had your cat in a catio when you are not a ramp to the window of the house, so the XX Extreme cold weather and snow can home, as accidents can always happen. cat could come and go as he pleased. open the door for frostbite. If your Consider your flooring options. As you’re looking at structures—there cat doesn’t want to venture out in Popular choices include wood (like deck is an amazing array of commercially the wet stuff, don’t force the issue. flooring), gravel or stone, mulch, and available catios—keep in mind that you

www.catwatchnewsletter.com January 2020 7  ASK ELIZABETH

diseases can be difficult, and while there Endoscopy: What to Expect are some less invasive markers (i.e., B vitamin levels in the blood) that can be Often recommended to find the cause of chronic diarrhea helpful in this regard, the only definitive way to diagnose these conditions is via I recently took my FIV-positive biopsy of the GI tract. Biopsies can be cat, Leo, to a veterinarian to ask obtained either by performing surgery— about his frequent diarrhea. It in which the abdominal wall is opened, Qis not totally liquid but varies from and samples are obtained from the almost liquid to somewhat formed. My outside of the exposed intestine—or via veterinarian discussed possible dietary endoscopy, during which samples can be modifications that may be helpful if obtained from inside the GI tract. this is due to a food allergy, but she also While both these procedures require suggested that she may have to “scope” general anesthesia, one major benefit him to find the cause of the problem. of obtaining samples of the GI tract via I have read a lot about FIV cats, and endoscopy is that no incisions into the it seems that they do oftentimes live with abdominal wall are necessary, thereby diarrhea. facilitating relatively quick recovery when I decided to add a probiotic and it has Photo Lightspruch | iStock compared to abdominal surgery. Chronic diarrhea is as annoying to your cat as improved quite a bit, but still he has some it is to you, plus it carries a risk of dehydration. Of course, there are other things that diarrhea. My question is what the scope can cause diarrhea in cats, but I imagine entails and whether it may be helpful in that the distinction between IBD and caring for Leo. biopsy or culture. This procedure requires GI lymphoma (two common causes of general anesthesia, but as long as Leo is diarrhea in cats) may be the reason that Thanks for getting in touch, and otherwise healthy, anesthetic risks can your veterinarian is discussing endoscopy I hope both you and Leo are likely be minimized to an acceptable as a potential diagnostic option. doing well. Chronic diarrhea can level, even in a cat that is FIV positive. I recommend that you continue to Abe caused by a number of problems in Two common causes of chronic work closely with your veterinarian to cats, and it is true that FIV-positive cats diarrhea in cats are inflammatory bowel address Leo’s diarrhea, and if all other may suffer from diarrhea for prolonged disease (IBD) and GI lymphoma. IBD is potential causes are ruled out, it may periods of time. It is believed that the a condition in which the walls of the GI well be that endoscopy is a reasonable immunodeficiency that may occur as tract become inflamed, likely due to an recommendation to arrive at a definitive a result of their FIV infections may overactive immune system responding answer. predispose them to bacterial and/or to components of the diet (see “IBD Best regards to both you and Leo fungal infections that can affect their Is Chronic GI Inflammation” in our from all of us here at the Feline Health gastrointestinal (GI) tracts. November 2019 issue and online at Center at Cornell, and best wishes for a Endoscopy (“scoping”) refers to catwatchnewsletter.com). GI lymphoma quick resolution and answer regarding the use of a flexible fiber-optic camera is a form of cancer that is more common the cause of his current problem. Please that can be passed in to the GI tract to in cats that are infected with feline send us an update when you can. visualize and evaluate the various regions leukemia virus. All My Best, of the tract and to obtain samples for Distinguishing between these two Elizabeth

Elizabeth works  HAPPENING NOW… with the Cornell Feline Health Center to provide Cinder-Block’s Weight-Loss Program— their lives?” See videos at http://bit.ly/ answers on Check out the videos about Cinder-Block, VideoCinder-Block and http://bit.ly/ this page (vet. cornell.edu/fhc/). an 8-year-old, 45-pound cat who moreCinder-Block. Write to her at was surrendered to the NorthShore catwatcheditor@ Veterinary Clinic in Bellingham, Wash., PACT Act Has One More Step— cornell.edu or CatWatch when the owner could no longer care The House and the Senate have both 535 Connecticut Ave., Norwalk, CT 06854. for her. The story and videos have gone unanimously passed the Preventing We welcome digital photos of your cat to viral. When the cat was surrendered, Animal Cruelty and Torture Act (PACT consider for use with your question. veterinarian Britta Kiffney and her Act). If signed by President Trump, the staff decided they could help Cinder- bill will outlaw purposeful cruelty to Block and put her on a weight-loss and animals (crushing, burning, drowning, Coming Up … exercise program with the goal of losing suffocation, impalement, or other XX The Right Diet for a Diabetic Cat half her weight within a year. “I think violence causing “serious bodily injury” XX Are You a Candidate for Doing Foster Care? she’s going viral because she may be the to animals). If the PACT Act becomes XX What’s Behind the Kitty Sneak Attack most relatable cat I’ve ever seen,” artist law, it will make these violations a federal Alex Plante told CNN. “Who hasn’t crime with a fine and up to seven years’ XX Litterbox Issues and FAQs cried on a treadmill at some point in imprisonment.n

8 CatWatch January 2020